This Halloween we asked neighbours across the UK to share their top tips on making Halloween in their neighbourhoods more green with #ReuseThisHalloween. There’s no doubt that each year a frightful amount of waste is accumulated as we discard pumpkins, costumes and plastic-wrapped sweets, but what can we do about it? This year, Halloween marks the start of COP 26, so there’s never been a better time to find more sustainable ways to celebrate mindfully. Find a handy half-term Halloween activity pack and our neighbours’ top green tips below.
- Find a second hand costume
Dressing up is fun but it doesn’t have to cost the Earth, try your local charity shop for a bargain or use Nextdoor Finds to see if neighbours have what you need. Supporting a local charity shop ensures your money is going to a good cause too!
2. Collect sweets in a pillowcase or basket
Plastic cauldron buckets aren’t necessary when you can easily stash your sweets in a pillowcase, basket or tote bag. Why not decorate it and keep it for next year too!
3. Support a local farm
If you can, find a local farm selling pumpkins and try picking your own. It’ll be a fun day out and you’ll be supporting the farm as well as getting out into nature.
4. Eat your pumpkin
There are many recipes you can try out such as pumpkin soup, pumpkin risotto and pumpkin pasta. Visit the Hubbub site for information and inspiration – just remember to use the flesh before you leave it out on your doorstep!
5. Compost the pulp
Composting is a great way to ensure pumpkin waste is used, just remember to remove any candles and decorations that could be harmful to wildlife. If you don’t have a composter, talk to your local allotments or ask a neighbour on Nextdoor.
6. Use the pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds can be dried then roasted and eaten or you can plant them and grow your own pumpkins! If you’re interested in growing food but don’t have the space, get your neighbours together on Nextdoor to start up a local community garden.
7. Reuse skulls decorations as planters
Skulls make an ideal holder for a pot plant after Halloween, why not create a themed area in your home or garden. Sharing gardening or crafting skills is a great way to build relationships with neighbours, start your own group and learn together!
8. Create a pasta skeleton
Pasta skeletons are an easy and fun way to create some homemade Halloween decor. They’re also a great way for kids to learn about the body!
9. Donate leftover food and sweets to a food bank
Consider those in need with any leftover sweets or food this Halloween. To find your nearest foodbank try the Trussell Trust website.
10. Have a sustainable party
Think about ways your party could be sustainable, such as cooking seasonally and sourcing local ingredients, making sure you use recyclable or compostable cups. Asking neighbours to bring a plate is a great way to share food recipes too!
For more Halloween fun, download our activity pack, perfect for a little half-term entertainment.
Neighbours are using Nextdoor to share tips, get and give help, receive trusted information and build community. Join your neighbourhood here.
Leave a Comment